Strain Gauge With Elastic Layer for Confined Space Measurement
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional strain gauge systems face challenges in accurately measuring deformations on complex structures due to the difficulty in attaching and connecting a large number of wires, especially in confined spaces, narrow slits, and closed cavities, which limits their sensitivity and increases installation costs.
Innovation Solution
A deformation measuring device featuring a strain gauge connected to a substrate via an elastic layer, allowing for mechanical attachment without transmitting deformations to the substrate, and utilizing radiofrequency signal transmission to eliminate the need for external wiring, enabling accurate deformation measurement without restricting the gauge's sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a large number of metal gauges are used to measure stress on complex structures, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to the large number of wires and connections required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple strain gauges and their signal processing circuits onto a single substrate, creating an integrated sensor assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate wiring for each gauge, reducing device complexity while maintaining the ability to measure at multiple points simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate serves multiple functions: it supports multiple strain gauges, provides electrical connections for all gauges, and integrates signal processing circuits. This multi-functionality reduces the overall system complexity while enabling precise multi-point measurements
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional metal gauges with wiring are used in confined spaces such as narrow slits and closed cavities, then measurement capability is achieved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to difficulty in attaching and connecting wires
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the strain gauges and their connections onto a single flexible substrate, the invention creates a compact sensor assembly that can be easily installed in confined spaces without requiring separate wire routing through narrow slits and cavities
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate is designed to be flexible and thin, allowing it to conform to complex surfaces and be installed in confined spaces. This flexibility enables the sensor to adapt to various geometries while maintaining ease of installation
3Strength
If metal gauges are attached directly to substrates, then mechanical connection is achieved, but measurement precision deteriorates because the substrate restricts gauge deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an elastic layer as an intermediary between the strain gauge and the substrate. This layer provides mechanical support and electrical connection while allowing the gauge to deform freely in response to applied stress, thereby maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The elastic layer changes its mechanical properties to balance between providing adequate mechanical support for electrical connections and allowing sufficient deformation for accurate measurement. The layer's elasticity enables it to accommodate gauge deformation while maintaining structural integrity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for accurate deformation measurement across complex structures with reduced installation complexity and cost, as it absorbs deformations and transmits electrical signals effectively, maintaining gauge sensitivity and eliminating the need for extensive wiring.
Implementation Method 1
means to connect the gauge and the substrate mechanically, including an elastic layer positioned between the gauge and the first substrate
Implementation Method 2
The metal track, according to the imposed deformation, is then subject proportionally to a variation of its resistance
Data Source
AI summary
A device for measuring deformation including: a) at least one strain gauge, producing a signal following a deformation, positioned on a face of a flexible support favoring elongation of the strain gauge, the face opposite the strain gauge of the flexible support, which is configured to be brought into contact with, or glued to, a test body with the deformation desired to be measured; b) at least one first substrate, including at least signal processor and/or signal transmission device; c) a securing mechanism to assemble the strain gauge and the first substrate mechanically, including an elastic layer of material having elastic properties positioned between the gauge and the first substrate, the elastic layer preventing deformation of the gauge from being transmitted, or be transmitted as little as possible, to the first substrate.